Focusing on the critical role IT plays in organizational development, the book shows how to employ action learning to improve the competitiveness of an organization. Defining the current IT problem from an operational and strategic perspective, it presents a collection of case studies that illustrate key learning issues. It details a dynamic model for effective IT management through adaptive learning techniques―supplying proven educational theories and practices to foster the required changes in your staff. It examines existing organizational learning theories and the historical problems that occurred with companies that have used them, as well as those that have failed to use them.
Arthur M. Langer has more than 25 years of experience in managing the strategic development, support, and marketing of software and computer systems. His professional expertise encompasses IT strategy, outsourcing, operations management, feasibility analysis and techniques for developing and marketing systems, management of IT staff, IT cost/benefit analysis, systems selection/migration, Year 2000 implementation, computer downsizing, and software re-engineering of enterprise systems to Client/Server using Object Oriented Methods. Select clients include Prudential Insurance, Corcoran Group, Citibank, Purina Mills, WNET/Thirteen, System Software Associates, Global Turnkey Systems, TIAA/Cref, France Telecom, and Buelli and Rasero (Italy’s largest insurance agents). In addition to corporate consulting, Dr. Langer presents seminars throughout the world on analysis, design, and software management.
Dr. Langer is Chair of Faculty and Curricular Development in the Information Technology Programs of Columbia University’s School of Continuing Education and teaches courses in the MBA program of the Graduate School of Business at Columbia. A specialist in issues of distance education, mentoring, and workplace learning, he has more than 15 years of experience in adult higher education. At Columbia, he is responsible for developing overall curricular direction, as well as individual courses, for graduate-level adult education program. He is also responsible for program administration, including faculty hiring and student recruitment.
As a researcher, Dr. Langer has authored various papers on information systems design and management. His current research focuses on the mentoring of adult learners and the design of technology-based curricula for corporations and universities. Dr. Langer is also the author of The Art of Analysis, used in the United States and abroad by universities and professionals in the industry. Dr. Langer holds a BS in computer science, an MBA in accounting/finance, and a Doctorate of Education from Columbia University.
